1978 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Skoda Superb

To start off, 2003 Skoda Superb is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Skoda Superb is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Skoda Superb (149 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Superb should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Skoda Superb weights approximately 565 kg more than 1978 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Ford Escort is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Superb, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Skoda Superb (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Skoda Superb will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Ford Escort 2003 Skoda Superb
Make Ford Skoda
Model Escort Superb
Year Released 1978 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 939 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 45 HP 149 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 60 Nm 210 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 1750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 875 kg 1440 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2810 mm